By Kehinde Jacobs
ABUJA — Nigerian Ambassador-designate to Mexico, Mr. Bemigho Reno Omokri has joined Nigerians in celebrating former Anambra State Governor, His Excellency, Mr Peter Obi on his 65th birthday, describing him as a key figure in “enlivening participatory democracy” in the country.
In a goodwill message released on Sunday, July 19, 2026, Omokri, a political commentator and author said he and his family were celebrating with Obi and thanking God for the blessings bestowed on the former presidential candidate.
“Here is wishing Mr Peter Obi a happy birthday on his 65th birthday, today, Sunday, July 19, 2026. May God bless you with long life in good health,” Omokri wrote. “My family and I celebrate with you even as we thank God for His blessings bestowed on you. We rejoice with you when you rejoice, and recognize your contributions towards enlivening participatory democracy.”
Obi, who turned 65 on Sunday, served as Governor of Anambra State from 2006 to 2014 and was the Labour Party presidential candidate in the 2023 general elections. Since then he has remained one of the most visible voices in Nigeria’s opposition space, with a large following of young voters who credit his campaigns with increasing political awareness and voter engagement across the country.
Referencing scripture, Omokri said Obi’s active involvement in politics has had a multiplier effect on civic participation.
“Scripture says, ‘Iron sharpens iron’, and you embody that,” he stated, adding: “By being active in the political process, you have helped sharpen your followers, making them more conscious and engaged in the democratic life of Nigeria. For that, you have my admiration.”
The message seemed to have struck a conciliatory tone despite past political differences between the two public figures. Omokri, who has been vocal in national political discourse over the years, closed with a prayer for Obi’s continued growth and wellbeing.
“And as this day only comes once in a year, it is perhaps the aptest desire of mind that the rest of your days shall be the best of your days, and that the Creator continues to increase you in wisdom as you increase in years,” he wrote.
He ended with a quote often associated with Abraham Lincoln: “With malice toward none, with charity for all, I say once again, happy birthday, sir, and may this day put you in a good way, such that you say at the end of the day that you had a hey day!”
Birthday tributes for Obi have poured in across social media and traditional platforms since morning, with supporters, political associates and civil society groups marking the day with messages of gratitude for his advocacy on accountability, education and prudent public spending.
The celebration comes at a time when conversations about democratic participation and youth involvement in governance continue to dominate public discourse in Nigeria ahead of future elections.
